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DeTomaso


Founded by Argentinian Alejandro de Tomaso, son of a former Prime Minister. Was to take over the family estate but political pressure saw him flee to Italy. Passionate about motor sports, he met with the Maserati brothers and raced their OSCA cars until founding his own company in 1959, dedicated to building race cars powered by OSCA engines. Began an association with Ford in 1963 when he launched the Vallunga, an important but not terribly successful car, but responsible for establishing the theory that an Italian exotic could be powered by a Ford V8.

The Vallunga was followed by the Mangusta, and many buyers grew to love the concept of an affordable power-plant wrapped in Italian sheet metal. DeTomaso's American wife had suitable connections, most noteably with Rowan Industries of New Jersey, who not only helped the marque establish itself in the US, but invested suffient funds to allow DeTomaso to take over Ghia coach-builders in 1967. The Mangusta was replaced by the Pantera in 1970; both are highly sought after classics today as they offer a beautiful mix of Italian style, American V8 power and supercar status. Also see: Lost Marques: DeTomaso.

DeTomaso Mangusta  

DeTomaso Mangusta

1966 - 1971
While looking every bit the Italian exotic, the power was to come from the bargain Ford 289 ci V8 - but of course it was the Shelby-tuned version that had already appeared in AC Cobra, Ford GT-40 and Mustang GT-350. More >>
DeTomaso Pantera  

DeTomaso Pantera

1970 - 1990
Powered by a Ford "Cleveland" 351 (5.7 liter) V8, this Italian-built exotic was able to offer supercar performance at a bargain price. Dubbed "The Poor Man's Lamborghini", the close relationship between Ford and De Tomaso saw Ford fully back the Pantera project in order to boost its image. More >>
DeTomaso Deauville

DeTomaso Deauville

1972 - 1984
The Deauville was designed to deliver high-performance luxury transportation for four, and featured a flowing-yet-muscular design, handsome from any angle. More >>

 

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